Suggested Resources – Financial Aid for Pets

This material is intended to provide a thought-provoking perspective on a particular subject and is not intended to portray a complete summary of all available information. Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary does not endorse these sites and makes no guarantees as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the products or services provided by these organizations. It is the responsibility of each pet owner to interview and research any potential service provided. Recommendations are only where specifically stated.

Your Veterinarian
Ask if they can set up a payment plan for you. Or if they have "care credit" (see below).

Care Credit
A credit card company (a GE Money Company) that offers a plan and low monthly payments.
Exclusive for healthcare services. No annual fees. Transactions over $300 qualify for special financing.
http://www.carecredit.com/

National (breed) Club
If you have a specific breed of dog, contact the National Club for that breed. In some cases, these clubs offer a veterinary financial assistance fund.

MSU (Michigan State University) – Small Animal Clinic
517-353-5420
Ask about "Lucky Fund" & info in regards to applying for this fund.

Contact Local Shelters
Some shelters operate or know of local subsidized veterinary clinics or veterinary assistance programs.

Animal Welfare Society of Southeastern Michigan
248-548-1150
May be able to help with free food for your dog or cat. E-mail animalwelfaresociety@yahoo.com.
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI13.html

The Paw Connection
866-423-9405
Non-profit animal welfare agency. Help for seniors, low income, & homeless families. Assists pet owners with pet food & other needed services for their animal companions.
http://thepawconnection.org/index.html

AAHA Helping Pets Fund
866-443-5738
Helps: Pet owner’s receiving government assistance for low income or when the pet owner experiences a temporary financial hardship, or when a veterinarian practice acts as a Good Samaritan & no pet owner exists. Does NOT accept applications from individuals – only from AAHA accredited veterinary practices can apply on behalf of a pet in need.
http://www.aahahelpingpets.org/

The Pet Fund
916-443-6007
501 © 3 non-profit association. Website provides financial assistance resources. Also application for funds – must call first. Send approved funds ONLY to the treating veterinarian. NOTE: Does NOT fund emergencies – refer to financial resources on website.
http://thepetfund.com/financial.htm

United Animal Nations
916-429-2457
501©3 organization. Help for life-threatening conditions that require urgent & specific treatment. Serving the Good Samaritan, animal rescuer, & pet owner thru their "lifeline" program. Offers one-time grants to low or no-income families facing emergency veterinary crises. Also has links to a multitude of other resources.
http://uan.org/index.cfm?navid=28

Angels 4 Animals
916-941-9119
"Program Guardian Angel" – sick or injured pets. Helps when there is an animal facing being euthanized or surrendered because of financial limitations.
http://www.angels4animals.org/index.html

Pet Support Services
517-267-9299
Helps senior citizens & people with special needs (illness or disability) to keep & care for their companion and or service animal.
http://www.petsupportmi.org

Humane Society of Kent County
616-453-8900
Offers low-cost vaccination clinics for dogs & cats on Mondays by appt. Call 453-8900, ext. 222 Vaccines, spay/neuter, HW test/pills
http://hskc.org/

Humane Society of Kent County – The Kibble Konnection
616-399-2119
Vouchers are issued to low-income families who then select a vet on a list the society maintains. Service includes the 1st round of vaccinations, de-wormer & microchip. Dogs receive a HW test & cats are tested for leukemia & feline HIV.
http://www.harborhumane.org/index.htm

Barry County Humane Society
269-945-0602
No physical shelter – May provide financial assistance with spay/neuter, emergency care, Pet Meals-on Wheels. Only for Barry County residents.

Ottawa Animal Hospital – Helping Hearts Clinic
616-399-2540
Providing free Rabies & Distemper vaccine, Heartworm test, preventative de-worming, and a complimentary dose of heartworm pills, for those that qualify, on May 16, 2009. (A minimal donation is suggested.) Application must be completed – available online or at the hospital. Also must provide a letter of reference verifying inability to pay (from social worker, clergy, etc.) Application must be received by May 10, 2009. First come, first serve basis – by appointment. NOTE: They do not treat sick or injured animals.
http://ottawaanimalhospital.homestead.c … cials.html